Tinbe Rochin

Tinbe rochin is a spear and shield combination used in traditional Ryukyuan martial arts (Ryûkyû kobudô). The spear is a rather short spear, with the shaft (not including the point) being roughly the length of the forearm, from wrist to elbow.[1] The shield was traditionally often made from the shell of a sea turtle.

Sources differ on which of the two, spear or shield, is tinbê and which rôchin.[2]

The spear is often tapered, such that the shaft grows thicker towards the butt end; the spear point expands as it goes back, allowing the weapon to be twisted as it goes in or out of an opponent, aggravating the wound. The short length of the spear makes it more manageable in one hand, and can be spun or swiveled so as to strike opponents with the butt end as well. Many techniques involve upward thrusts, so as to get under armor and/or under an opponent's rib cage. Throat strikes are also common, and some techniques involve throwing the spear.